Published on Friday, 31 October 2025 at 11:52:39 AM
The City of Busselton is proud to announce the completion of the installation of new granite plaques at the Old Busselton Cemetery (Pioneer Cemetery), located between Marine Terrace and Adelaide Street, Busselton.
The Old Busselton Cemetery holds significant cultural heritage value as the final resting place of many early European settlers of the region and members of families prominent in the early history of Western Australia. The first burial appears to have been that of Alfred Thomas Smith in 1864, although the cemetery was discussed much earlier in the 1800s. Prior to this cemetery, many of the European settlers were buried at St Mary’s Anglican Church.
Over the past three years, the City has worked closely with State Records and Department of Justice (Births, Deaths and Marriages) to research and confirm the names of people buried at the cemetery. Records prior to the 1900s were not complete. Through extensive community and industry consultation, the Old Busselton Cemetery Project brought together local and state historians, community representatives, to correct and expand historical records.
As a result, the project identified an additional 750 individuals, increasing the known number of burials from 250 to nearly 1,000. The information was verified, where possible, through state and local registries, burial books, historical research and early cemetery records.
The City continues to work in partnership with community members to ensure strong heritage outcomes and lasting respect for this important historical site.
City of Busselton Mayor, Phill Cronin said: “The City would particularly like to acknowledge the dedication and commitment made by the late Annie Faithfull. Annie’s family were funeral directors during the time the cemetery was operational. She worked with the City to clear grave sites and remove overgrown vegetation. Annie was instrumental in creating interpretive signage about the cemetery’s history and the people buried there. A map was also developed to help visitors more easily locate gravesites. Annie’s husband, Barry Faithfull, and daughter, Jodie Goss, continue to honour her legacy and treasure the memory of her deep passion for preserving the history of the cemetery.”
Mayor Cronin added: “It’s wonderful to see the cemetery revitalised and the City’s history preserved. The community is very fortunate to have incredible people so invested in our rich heritage. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, knowledge and expertise to this important project.”
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Council Plan (2024 - 2034) Key Theme Place – Responsible planning is helping the region to experience sustainable growth with retention and enhancement of our unique character, identity and lifestyle.
Photo for general use: City of Busselton Manager Parks and Environment Brad Reynolds; Barry Faithfull husband of; and Jodie Goss, daughter of the late Annie Faithfull; with City of Busselton Cultural Development Officer Jacquie Happ; and Mayor Phill Cronin at the Old Busselton Cemetery.
Photo for general use: Old Busselton Cemetery first known internment in 1864 – Alfred Thomas Smith aged 11 years.
Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au
Find out more about the Old Busselton Cemetery Project.
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